Besides poison ivy and poison oak, other plants can irritate, scratch, and cause rashes. Some to look for include: wild parsnip, stinging nettle, cacti, raspberry, rose, coarse grass. This is a good way to encourage staying on the trail to reduce chances of getting too close to these plants, insects, and animals.

Non-refrigerated food and drink works best. On longer hikes, snacking often at breaks keeps a body better fueled than stopping for a big, long lunch break. Be careful when walking and eating so you don't choke and don't drop bits of food.

Look for examples of poisonous plants, ways to follow LNT Principles, and opportunities to read maps and use a compass while on the hike.

Contact the manager of the location of your hike beforehand to find out what project your den can do. There's often small clean-ups needed, such as overgorwn brush, down trees, or spreading bark chips. Don't modify the trail or nature area without first checking - that tree across the trail might be part of a reroute.

If you have a large den, a scout does not need to be navigator or first-aid person for the entire hike, but make sure they each have opportunities to make some decisions and practice leading their den. Only one scout at a time should be leading, not co-leaders.